Our Mission to End Osteoarthritis Pain
Mission & Vision
Our Mission
Alleviating the pain of osteoarthritis through movement, nutrition, and purpose.
Our Vision
To be the most trusted clearinghouse in Tampa Bay for quality-vetted, non-pharmacological arthritis care, ensuring every adult can age with dignity, independence, and joy.
From Groundbreaking Research to Community Action
The ARTHRIVE was founded in Clearwater, Florida, in 1984 with a singular, ambitious goal: to understand the “who” and “why” behind osteoarthritis (OA). While other organizations focused on general healthcare, ARTHRIVE has dedicated 100% of its resources to the epidemiology of joint wear and tear.
The Clearwater Osteoarthritis Study (COS) – For over two decades (1988–2009), ARTHRIVE conducted the flagship Clearwater Osteoarthritis Study. This longitudinal project enrolled over 3,700 local volunteers, producing 13 peer-reviewed papers that changed how the medical community views evidence-based arthritis care.
Our researchers explored the links between joint injury, obesity, weather, and even smoking on the progression of OA.
Evolution into Advocacy – In 2010, armed with twenty years of data proving that lifestyle factors significantly impact joint health, ARTHRIVE shifted from observing OA to actively fighting it.
We opened the Arthritis and Wellness Institute (AWI) to provide direct support.
Today, ARTHRIVE has evolved into a digital-first Tampa Bay clearinghouse. We leverage our decades of research to vet local programs, ensuring that the movement, nutrition, and socialization resources we recommend are backed by science and proven to improve the lives of the aging population.
The 3 Pillars
Our history in research taught us that non-pharmacological arthritis relief is most effective when it addresses the whole person. We focus on:
Movement
Low-impact strategies to maintain mobility.
Nutrition
Anti-inflammatory eating to reduce joint stress.
Purpose
Social engagement to improve mental health and pain tolerance.
Leadership & Team
ARTHRIVE’s direction is guided by experts committed to senior health and evidence-based wellness.
[Insert Name]
Executive Director
The Executive Director fosters trusted partnerships and oversees programs to empower the aging population.
[Insert Name]
Program Coordinator
The Program Coordinator ensures smooth delivery of our services and coordinates directly with vetted partners.
[Insert Name}
Resource Navigator
Dedicated to helping individuals and caregivers easily connect with vetted local programs across our health pillars.
Partners & Collaborations
We don’t work in a vacuum. ARTHRIVE serves as a bridge between the aging population and the vetted wellness programs they need. We are proud to collaborate with:
- Tampa Bay Community Centers: Hosting local workshops and movement classes.
- Regional Healthcare Providers: Ensuring patients have access to non-drug treatment options post-diagnosis.
- Senior Health Advocates: Partnering with Florida-based organizations to advance aging-in-place initiatives.
Research Integrity Note: Every program we recommend undergoes a strict vetting process based on the findings of the Clearwater Osteoarthritis Study and contemporary clinical guidelines.